Crawford County, Ohio - The whole text, 1902 (part 11 of 22)

He -first opened his eyes to the light of day in Hesse Darmstadt, in 1836, a son of Henry and Margaret (Yakley) Keil. He was reared in the place of his nativity, pursued his education in the public schools and at the age of eighteen resolved to try his fortune in America, believing that he would have better opportunities for advancement in the new world. Accordingly, he crossed the briny deep to this country and made his way across the country to Bucyrus, where he established a blacksmith shop for himself in 1856. He continued business there for twelve years and then began dealing extensively in stock. He also purchased and operated a farm, and through the successful management of his business he acquired a handsome competence, the sales of his farm products and his stock annually augmenting his income. He also engaged in the purchase and shipment of hay on quite an extensive scale, and has owned much valuable real estate in the business portion of Bucyrus. Mr. Keil has lost much property through going security to oblige friends who have proved unworthy of the trust reposed in them, but is still in possession of a good capital, which enables him to live in practical retirement from business cares.

In public affairs Mr. Keil has taken a very active and commendable interest, supporting all measures for the general good. In 1882 he was elected to the office of county sheriff and served for four years, retiring from the position as he had entered it, - with the confidence and good will of the people. That he was a capable officer is shown by the fact that in 1894 he was again chosen to the position and served until 1898. Prompt and fearless in the discharge of his duties, his course created confidence in the law-abiding citizens and dread in those who were law-breakers. He has long been known as a leading and influential member of the Democracy of Crawford county, and has several times served on the county central committee, doing all in his power to promote the political interests in which he firmly believes.

Mr. Keil was united in marriage to Miss Minnie Hocker, who emigrated from Baden, Germany, to the United States. She was to him a faithful companion and helpmate on life's journey for a number of years, and her death occurred in 1809, at the age of sixty-two years. In their family were the following named: John C. married Miss Bella Mathews, and unto them were born two children, Edwin and Florence. He served as deputy sheriff under his father and died in 1897, at tne a8"e °^ thirty-eight years, his loss being greatly deplored, for he was an extremely popular man, his pleasant manner, genial disposition and many sterling characteristics winning him the highest regard of all with whom he was associated. Harry is now engaged in the stock business in the Stock Yards of Chicago. Charles is married and is engaged in dealing in hay in Bucyrus. Kate is the wife of Calvin Holmes, a resident of Bucyrus. Mary is the wife of William Larkin, of Toledo, Ohio. Fanny is the wife of Clem Rozer, a well-known photographer of Bucyrus. Minnie. Mattie and Amelia are all under the paternal roof and are students in the public school. Mr. Keil and family attend the Mehtodist Episcopal church. The subject of this sketch has been the architect of his own fortune and has builded wisely and well. Coming to America without capital, he depended upon industry and energy to enable him to gain a start and upon persistent purpose and resolute will in order to maintain a creditable position in the business world. His labors brought to him a merited financial revard, and to-day he is numbered among the substantial and highly esteemed residents of Bucyrus.

Adam J. Lichty

Adam J. Lichty, who occupies the position of city marshal, was born in Cranberry township, Crawford county, upon his father's farm, November 12, 1848. He is of French lineage, for his father, Peter Lichty, was born in Lorraine, France, April 15, 181 1, and in 1838 emigrated to America, accompanied by his parents. He located in Delaware, Ohio, where he worked at his trade of wagon-making, which he had learned in his native country. Subsequently he removed to New Washington, Crawford county, where he followed wagon-making until he purchased a farm, about 1847. Taking up his abode upon his new property, he there carried on agricultural pursuits until 1858, when he removed to Bucyrus, where he resided until 1879, in which year he became a resident of Sac county, Iowa. He lived with a son in that county until his death, which occurred March 3, 1884. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Barbara Beer, was born in Lorraine, France, September 23, 1810, and died on the 12th of May, 1883, in Sac county.

Adam J. Lichty, of this review, remained upon the home farm only until January, 1858, when he was taken to Bucyrus, and in the public schools of the city pursued his education. He was but a boy when he enlisted in his country's service, joining Company C of the One Hundred and Eighty-sixth Ohio Volunteer Infantry, commanded by Captain Brifogel and Colonel Wilds. The regiment was mustered in at Camp Chase, Columbus, on the 25th of February, 1865, and was sent to Nashville, Tennessee. From that place they marched to Murfreesboro' and thence proceeded by train to Cleveland, Tennessee, where they were placed in the rear of Fort Steadman. Later they were transferred to Dalton, Georgia, and Air. Lichty was detailed with twenty-five others from the regiment to' go to New Orleans on special duty. He afterward rejoined his command at Dalton, Georgia, and from there was sent to Chattanooga, Tennessee, but afterward returned to Nashville, where he was mustered out. He then proceeded to- Camp Chase, where, with his regiment, he was honorably discharged. During all the time which he spent in the south he was engaged in fighting guerrillas.

After his military experience was ended Air. Lichty came again to Bucyrus and was employed with his father as a carriage wood-worker, which pursuit he followed until 1868, when he went to Toledo, Iowa, and there worked at his trade for about eighteen months. He then removed to Lima, Ohio, where he was employed in the railroad shops of the Dayton & Michigan Railroad, and then returned to Bucyrus. After visiting for a time in this city he went to Sandusky, Ohio, where he followed his trade until his removal to Yandalia, Illinois, where he was employed in a similaY capacity until he went to St. Louis, Missouri, hi that city he again found work at his trade, but the carriage factory in which he was employed was destroyed by fire and in the conflagration he lost his tools. Subsequently he entered the employ of a Chicago soap house as a local collector in St. Louis, and from there went to Chicago to act as city collector for the same firm. His next change in business life took him to a lumber camp at Big Rapids, Michigan, but after a short period he returned to Bucyrus and accepted a position as traveling salesman for the Bucyrus Reaper and Mower Works, remaining upon the road for about two years. He then entered into partnership with his father, under the firm name of P. Lichty & Son, carriage manufacturers, a connection that was maintained for about three years, when they sold out, our subject opening an agricultural store, which he conducted successfully during the following decade. He then disposed of that property, and in the year 1889 was appointed city marshal of Bucyrus, serving for two years, when he resigned. He afterward worked in the line of his trade until 1898, when he was elected city marshal, and has since filled the office with credit to himself and satisfaction to his constituents.

On the 7th of December, 1876, Mr. Lichty was united in marriage with Miss Anna Streib, a daughter of Conrad Streib, who was born at Messinger, Wurtemberg, Germany, March 8, 182 1, and crossed the Atlantic to the new world in August, 1855. He became a resident of Bucyrus, and his death occurred in this city in January. 1880. His wile was born at Weisen stein, Wurtemberg, .May 19, 1823, and died December 2^, 1873. Unto Air. and Airs. Lichty have been born three children: George Raymond, whose birth occurred August 24. 1879: Marcus Henry, born July 7. 1883: and Robert Curtis, born November 12, 1885.

The Methodist Episcopal Church Oe Bucyrus

This is one of the strong religious organizations of Crawford county. The Methodists were the first religious lx dy to enter this county, and have had a potent influence in Christian work here. Only two years after the first settlers came to what is now Bucyrus the Methodist ministers began their v The first sermon was preached in the city in 1821 by Jacob Hooper and he was soon afterward followed by the Rev. Bacon. In the fall of 1821 the Rev. Hooper was appointed pastor in charge, and as his circuit was seven hundred miles around, he preached in Bucyrus but once in eight weeks. In 1822 Rev. Thomas McCleary was the preacher in charge, and in 1823 the circuit was made smaller and James Row was appointed junior preacher, so the pv heard the gospel every two weeks. The same year John O. and William Blowers, brothers, began active work in the county. The Rev. Bacon, who was pastor, was a man full of tact and popular with the people. In 1824 Jacob Dixson was in charge, and in 1825 James Gilruth was appointed pawhile James McMahan was presiding elder from 1825 until 1828. In 1826 Abner Goff accepted the pastorate and. a new brick school-house having been erected in Bucyrus, the Methodist people worshiped therein until they built a church of their own in 1832. Previous to that time their services were held in groves, cabins and barns. In 1828 James Gilruth and William Runnels occupied the pulpit, and in 1829 David Lewis and Samuel Shaw. In 1830 a great revival was held and the membership of the church was largely increased. From 1829 until 183 1 Russell Biglow was presiding elder, and in 1831 Alfred M. Lorain and David Cadwallader. Between 1832 and 1849, in the order mentioned, the following acted as pastors: Erastus Felton, Harvey Camp, John Kinnear, James Wilson. Adam Poe, Thomas Thompson, George W. Breckenridge, Samuel B. Garberson, Liberty Prentiss, Samuel

P. Shaw, Peter Sharp, John Conway, Oren Mitchell, John Hazzard, Hibbard B. Ward, Henry Warner, Hubert Dubois and a few others whose names have not been secured.

In 185P a two-story brick church was begun on the site of the old house of worship and was dedicated the following- year by Adam Poe. Few churches have had as many changes made in their district and conference relations as the Bucyrus church. In 1850 Bucyrus circuit was in Tiffin district of the North Ohio conference. Various earnest and energetic men acted as pastors of the church from time to time. The year 1877 was a memorable one in the history of the church. J. J. Henry was appointed pastor. Young, earnest, devout, zealous and winning all hearts, he labored for the salvation of souls and gave up his life as a sacrifice to his Master. Holding a great revival in the winter of 1877-78, with over two hundred conversions and one hundred and eighty accessions to the church, from overwork he took brain fever, and after three weeks of suffering passed to his rest on March if*. 1878. His death was mourned by thousands of people, and his name is held in precious memory. Rev. J. H. Barron came to fill the unexpired time of Brother Henry. In 1884 a large and commodious parsonage was built on the corner of East and Warren streets. The present pastor, M. J. Keys, has been in charge since 1896 and has been successful in lifting the heavy debt that was upon the church.

The work is now thoroughly organized in its various departments and is having great influence in public affairs. In addition to the regular work of the church there is a growing Epworth League, a Sunday-school, a Ladies' Aid Society and Pastors' Pinion, together with the missionary societies. The Epworth League supports a school in India. The church has sent two of its young ladies into the mission held, while some of its young men have become ministers of the gospel. The people of Bucyrus are progressive and the church has in it many public-spirited men who bring into the church the same energy and resolution which characterizes their work in business life. As a result of this the membership has nearly doubled itself and the work is being carried on in a most commendable manner.

John H. Trago

A substantial and representative farmer of Crawford county, Ohio, is John H. Trago, of Auburn township, who was born here on May 31, 1840. He was a son of Daniel and Sarah (Waters) Trago, who reared a family of ten children, the two survivors being our subject and his sister, Mary, who is the wife of William N. Keller, a resident of Allen county, Indiana.

Daniel Trago was born in Chester county, Pennsylvania, on May S, 1796, of Quaker ancestry, and grew to manhood in his native state, where he learned the trade of millwright. This trade he followed for a number of years, but in 1832 he decided to become a farmer, and with his family he emigrated to Columbiana county, Ohio. Five years later he came to Crawford county, then Richland county, and bought the farm of one hundred and sixty acres of land in Auburn township, which lies on the corner of our subject's present farm. At different times in later years he purchased other property and became the owner of three farms beside the one mentioned, one of which consisted of one hundred and twenty acres, another of eighty, and still another of eighty acres.

The death of Mr. Trago occurred on January 3, 1876. He was formerly a Whig in his political faith, but later identified himself with the Republican party, which, in fact, has conserved Whig principles. He had been reared in the quiet and peaceful religious belief of the Quakers, and never departed from it. The mother of our subject was born in Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, on January I, 1806, and died in May, 1871. She had been reared in the Episcopal church, but found no congregation of that kind in the neighborhood of her home, therefore she associated herself with the Baptist church and became a willing and consistent worker therein as long as she lived.

Our subject grew up in a good home, under the training of a most estimable father and mother. His education was acquired in the common schools, and his recollections are very vivid of the old pioneer log school house, with its slab benches, etc. He continued to work on the farm with his father until the date of his marriage, October 21. 1866, at which time he was married to Miss Nancy A. Mount. She was a native of Cass township, Richland county, and she was the daughter of James Mount, who was a native of Ireland. To this union four children were born, viz.: Fannie, who is a teacher in the New Washington schools, filling her sixth term in this school ; Justus J., who is a civil engineer, in the employ of the chief engineer's office of jthe Richland & Mahoning Railroad at Akron, Ohio; Andrew E., who has passed away ; and John Henry, who met his death in a sawmill by being thrown against the saw.

Following his marriage Mr. Trago rented the farm which he occupies from his father, and at the latter' s death he purchased the property from the other heirs and since that time this has been the pleasant and comfortable family home. In politics Mr. Trago is a Republican, but he has never sought office. His mother brought him up in the Baptist church, but he has never become a member of any religious denomination, attending the Lutheran church with his wife, and teaching in their Sunday-school, exerting thus an influence in the direction of morality that but adds to the high esteem in which he is held in the community. On February 9, 1892, Mrs. Trago passed out of life and left behind a deeply bereaved family and a wide circle of sorrowing friends.

Joseph Gledhill

Joseph Gledhill, of Jefferson township, Crawford county, Ohio, a plain, unassuming man and a wealthy and progressive farmer, whose neighbors say that his farm is in many respects the best in that township, was born near Little Beaver, Trumbull county, Ohio, a son of Joseph and Mary (Mitchell) Gledhill, April 2, 1832. His father was a native of the north of England, and his good wife bore him eleven children, eight of whom grew to manhood and womanhood. Elizabeth, the first born, married David Snyder and she and her husband are both dead. Mary is the wife of Perry Russell, of Middletown, Ohio. Esther, who was the wife of John Shoemaker, is dead. Martha, who married Colonel Calvin Burwell, is dead. Sarah is the wife of Henry Castle, of Jefferson township, Crawford county, Ohio. Joseph, the subject of this sketch, was the fourth in order of birth. John is dead. William lives on his father's old homestead in Jefferson township. The father of these children came to America in 1826 and located in Trumbull county, Ohio, where he put a woolen mill in operation. He had brought quite a sum of money with him to America from England, but because of over-confidence in some people with whom he dealt he failed in business in Trumbull county, in 1832. By means of a one-horse wagon he removed to Crawford county, where he bought eighty acres of land, upon which some improvements had been made, for eighty dollars. Pie lived in a small house of round logs, which stood on the place, and not knowing anything about farming he busied himself at cutting down trees and chopping them up into cord wood, which he piled up on his land and sold, when occasion offered, to such advantage as was possible, and thus he was employed mostly for several years. He died there in 1868, at the age of sixty-eight years, and his wife lived on the homestead farm until 1886, when she died, aged eighty-four years.

Ohio, the subject of this sketch was about six mouths old. He grew up amid the most primitive surroundings, helping to clear land and raise crops and availing himself of such scanty educational facilities as the locality afforded. In 1858, when he was twenty-six years old, he married Elizabeth Hershner. The following items of information concerning their children will add to the interest of this sketch : William and Edward are both dead. The eldest daughter, Delia, is the wife of J. Stough, of Gabon, Ohio. Minnie is the wife of J. G. Brown, of Covington, Kentucky. Myrtie married R. C. Tracht, a lawyer, and lives at Gabon, Ohio. Matie is the wife of James Morton, ticket agent for the Cleveland, Cincinnati, Chicago & St. Louis Railroad Company, at Mt. Gilead, Ohio. Kittie is the wife of J. C. Schaber, of Henry county, Ohio. Arthur married Alma Farrell and lives in Jefferson township, Crawford count)', Ohio. Mack married Verna Beck and is a farmer in Jefferson township, Crawford county, Ohio.

After his marriage Mr. Gledhill bought and moved upon the place in Jefferson township, Crawford county, which is now his home farm. He now owns four hundred acres of land, most of it well improved and very productive, well equipped with all necessary buildings, appliances and utensils, ,-i farm which by common consent is conceded to be for all practical purposes the finest in the township. Mr. Gledhill is a Republican and has held the office of township trustee for seven years.

David M. Peppard

One of the prominent railroad engineers on the Pittsburg, Fort "Wayne & Chicago Railroad, now living in Crestline. Ohio, has been in the service of that company through a very long period and is one of its most faithful and trustworthy employes. He was born near Mansfield, Richland count}', Ohio, December 25, 1834. His father, Francis Peppard, was a native of Beaver county, Pennsylvania, and when about twelve years of age became a resident of Wayne county, Ohio, whither he went with his parents. There he was reared, and from an early age he followed the plasterer's trade. Removing to Mansfield, he carried on business along that line through a length v period. There he married Miss Alary Ann Morrison, a native of Crawford county, Pennsylvania. Her parents, however, were born in Ireland, and, crossing the Atlantic to the new world, settled on French creek, Crawford county, Pennsylvania, whence they afterward removed to Richland county, Ohio, casting in their lot with the early settlers there. Mr. and Mrs. Peppard began their domestic life in Mansfield, Ohio, but after a short time the father purchased land where our subject now resides. The place was then a part of Richland county, but this portion of the state has since been placed in Crawford county. After carrying on agricultural pursuits for a number of years the father sold the farm and removed to Crestline, where he died when more than seventyeight years of age. He was one of the pioneers of the county and cleared and improved ninety acres of land where the son now makes his home. In politics he was first a Freesoiler, and when James G. Birney became a candidate of the Abolition party for the office of president he gave him his support. Later, when the Republican party was formed to prevent the further extension of slavery, he joined its ranks. He held membership in the Methodist Episcopal church, although reared in the Presbyterian faith. His wife also, belonged to the Methodist Episcopal church. She lived to be only thirty-six years of age. Their children, twoi sons and three daughters, all reached mature years and all are yet living, David M., of this review, being the eldest. The others are Margaret Ann, wife of J. J. Talbott ; Eliza Jane, the wife of E. L. McLaughlin, engineer on the Great Northern railroad; William, who is engineer on the Pittsburg, Fort Wayne & Chicago road; and Lydia A., the wife of Jerome Brokar, a laundryman of Elyria, Ohio.

David M. Peppard was only about a year old when his parents removed to Crawford county, where he pursued his education in the district schools. He worked on the home farm until seventeen years of age, and then took up railroad work, being first employed at shoveling dirt on the Sandusky, Mansfield £. Newark line. After thirteen and a half days spent in that way he was made brakeman on the same road. This was in the year 1852. He afterward became a fireman, and on the 15th of August, 1853, he entered the service of the Pennsylvania & Ohio Railroad Company as car inspector, and in April, 1854, was made brakeman on a passenger train running between Crestline and Pittsburg. The following year he was transferred to the position of fireman on the same road, and acted in that capacity until November, 1859, when he was promoted to engineer on a freight train running from Crestline to Alliance, Ohio. On the 15th of August, 1873, he took charge of a roundhouse as foreman, and was thus engaged until April 18, 1882, when he became master mechanic in the Crestline shops, thus serving- until February, 1890, when he again wrent upon the road as engineer on a passenger train running between Crestline and Alliance. He worked in that way until November, 1897. since which time he has run a shifting engine in the Crestline yard. He is one of the oldest employes of the Pennsylvania road, and his long con-

In February, 1856, Mr. Peppard was united in marriage to Miss Maria. A. Hoffman, a native of Richland county, Ohio, and a daughter of Nathan and Electa ( Parrott) Hoffman. They have become the parents of eight children: Mary, now the wife of G. P. Welshons, a farmer of Crawford county; Kate, who married J. P. Brown, formerly an engineer in Crestline; Frank, deceased ; William, who is married and lives in Crestline ; Grant, a machinist in the time works at Shelby, Ohio; Edwin, who follows the painter's trade in Crestline; and Harry and Samuel, at home. Mr. Peppard is a member of the Masonic fraternity, belonging to- lodge No. 2/2, of Crestline. He also holds membership relations with the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and with the Methodist Episcopal church, in which he has served as trustee for some time, filling the office in a commendable manner and doing everything in his power to promote the best interests of the church and the cause it represents. His father voted for William Henry Harrison in 1840 and Mr. Peppard has ever since been a stanch Republican. Pie began voting in Crestline when only fifty Republican votes were cast in the town. His first presidential ballot supported John C. Fremont ; twice he voted for Lincoln and twice for Grant, and never has he failed to indicate his political preferences at a presidential election by casting a ballot for the candidates of his choice. He owns and occupies a little farm of fourteen acres near Crestline, and it is cultivated under his supervision. He has long resided in the city and is well kno'vn as a capable and prominent representative of railway interests.

Charles A. Brown

One of the most substantial, intelligent and highly respected citizens of Crawford county, Ohio, who owns a large acreage of valuable land in Sandusky township, where he is also a leader in political and social circles, is Charles A. Brown, who was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, on November 13, 1 83 1. He was a son of John and Rosanna ( Gruber) Brown, who became the parents of a family of seven children, of whom our subject is the only survivor.

Both John and Rosanna Brown, the parents of our subject, were born in % Wurtemberg, the former in 1790 and the latter in 1795, and there they grew to maturity and were united in marriage. The father was a soldier in the Russian war, under King' Frederic, of Wittenberg, and was, in fact, one of his body-guard. In 1832 John Brown decided to emigrate to America, in the hope of being able to secure lands for his children, and preparations were made for the long journey, and landing was finally made in Xew York City, after a long and stormy voyage of sixty-two days. With his wife and six children, our subject then being a child of six months, Mr. Brown started westward, making the trip from New York to Albany by the river, thence by canal to Buffalo and thence to Cleveland via the lakes. Here they secured teams and proceeded to Columbiana county, where they passed their first winter. Determining to proceed farther west, the father bought three yoke of cattle and a wagon, and thus the family came, as did many another, into Crawford county. When the party reached the Wyandot Indian reservation it then turned back, locating in Sandusky township, where Mr. Brown purchased a farm of eighty acres, in section 13, that being the same farm now occupied by the widow of Christian Brown. Upon this land Mr. Brown settled and made it his home until his death, in 1856. After locating on this land he entered three tracts of eight)' acres each, in Chatfield township, with the idea of thus providing for his children, but shortly afterward he sold those tracts and bought extensive lands in Mercer county, which in course of time he divided among his children, whose welfare he always had at heart. Mr. Brown was a most worthy and consistent member of the German Lutheran church and contributed largely to its spread and support. The mother of our subject died in 1886, at the age of ninety-one years.

Charles A. Brown, of this biography, was reared on the home farm and attended school in the little log school house of pioneer times. Although he was handicapped at first by his inability to either speak or understand anything' but the German tongue, he was very apt and soon improved and later became well educated, and is now one of the intelligent and leading men of the county. \\ hen he was about twenty years of age, by the marriage of his brother, Christian, the charge of the farm was given into his hands, and our subject began his own career outside the home limits. Farm work in the neighborhood was easy to find, and other occupations presented themselves, so that he was kept quite busy, until he was given his farm in Mercer county. This consisted of eighty acres of unimproved land and our subject decided to wait until a favorable oportunity came to make an exchange, and in 1856 he was able to trade his Mercer county farm for eighty acres in Lykens township. This land he retained until i860, and then sold it advantageously and bought the one hundred and twenty acres in Sandusky township where he now

In 1871 Mr. Brown was united in marriage to Miss Lovina Easterday, a native of Chatfield township and a daughter of Jacob Easterday, who was one of the early settlers of this county, coming here from Germany. After his marriage our subject and wife settled on his farm, to' which he has since made many additions, until now it comprises three hundred and ten acres and is finely improved. Mr. Brown has engaged extensively in the breeding of Shorthorn cattle and Poland China hogs, and is just making a trial of the new breed of cattle known as the Aberdeen, there being but few of these yet in the county. His operations both in cattle and stock-raising, as well as in farming, have proved very successful, and he is regarded as one of the most substantial citizens of Crawford county.

A family of twelve children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Brown. and nine of these still survive, several of them located in this or neighboring townships, while the others still remain under the home roof. Their names are as follows: Willis L., a farmer of this township; Charles Elburtis. of Broken Sword, in Holmes township; Milton F., at home; Waldo F., a teacher and pursuing a course in Heidelberg University, Tiffin, Ohio; and Carl A., Floyd E., Dora G., Edson J. and Samuel E. are all at home.

Mr. Brown is a stanch Republican at present, having become so within the past few years, and has efficiently served four years as township trustee. His fellow citizens desired to honor him with the offices of justice of the peace and assessor, but met with his refusal to fill these, the only other office that he accepted being that of treasurer. Fie is a consistent member of the Reformed church and is one of the most influential men in this part of Crawford count}', and well represents its best interests.

Frederick Lust

Among the settlers who came to Crawford county in pioneer days and were long identified with the upbuilding and development of this portion of the state, and none have been more highly respected or more worthy of high regard than the Rev. Frederick Lust, who not only gave his attention to agricultural pursuits, but also devoted much of his time through forty years to the work of preaching the gospel as a minister of the Pietist church. He was born in Wurtemberg', Germany, in 181 5, and with his father, John David Lust, he came to America in 1820, crossing the ocean on one of the old-time sailing vessels, which required weeks to make the passage. On reaching the shores of the new world the father brought his family to Ohio, and first located in Marion county, and ten years later coming to Crawford county. From that time forward until his death Frederick Lust was a resident of this county. He lived in Lykens township and there he purchased a tract of wild land, which he transformed into a productive farm.

As a companion and helpmate for the journey of life Mr. Lust chose Sophia Beak and unto them were born nine children : Samuel, now deceased; Lydia, the wife of Frederick Heiber, of Liberty township; Sophia, the wife of Martin Durr, by whom she had three children; Benjamin, deceased ; Louisa, who married Charles Lindner, of Valparaiso, Indiana ; Susan, deceased; Emanuel, who is living in Holmes township; Isaac, who has passed away; and Nathaniel, who resides at Sulphur Springs, Ohio. For his second wife Rev. Mr. Lust chose Dorothy Gross.

Throughout his active business career he carried on farming, and at the time of his death was the owner of two hundred and fifty acres of valuable land, for as time passed he made judicious investments of his earnings and thus gained a valuable property. He was also1 the first minister of the Pietist church in this locality and for forty years gave much time, energy and consecrated thought to the work of helping his fellow men to walk in the path pointed out by the Savior. In politics he was a Democrat, and served as school director and trustee of his township. He took an active interest in educational affairs and in all movements tending to benefit the community. By precept and example he labored for the cause of the church, and his influence was very marked. His memory remains as a benediction to all who knew this worthy and upright pioneer.

John Leonhart

Enterprise and determination have formed the foundation upon which the success of Mr. Leonhart has been builded. He is to-day numbered among the leading agriculturists of the county, wide-awake, progressive and enterprising, and his farm of three hundred and twenty acres, with its many excellent improvements, is a monument to his labor and resolution.

Mr. Leonhart is a native of Stark county, Ohio, his birth having occurred near Canton, on the 4th of October, 1834, his parents being George and Margaret (Capst) Leonhart. Both were natives of Alsace, Germany. They beo o came the parents of six children, the eldest being the subject of this review. The others are Catherine, the widow of Conrod Hammer; Elizabeth, the wife of Adam Reichard, of Chatfield township ; George, who is living in Kansas; Adam, also of Chatfield township; and Adolpb, who makes his home in Virginia. In the year 1832 George Leonhart, the father of this family, came to America, landing on the shores of the new world after a voyage of forty days. He settled in Stark count}', Ohio, where he purchased eighty acres of land, upon which he made his home until March, 1837, when he came to Crawford count}-, taking up his abode in Chatfield township. Here he purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land, of which only five acres had been cleared, while a log cabin constituted the improvements that had been made in the shape of buildings. He cleared and improved that farm and as the years passed added to his property until at one time he owned seven hundred acres of valuable land. He died in 1886, in the seventy-seventh year of his age, respected by all who knew him. He was a member of the German Evangelical Lutheran church, served as one of its trustees and took an active interest in its work. His widow still survives him and is now eighty-seven years of age.

John Leonhart was not quite four years of age when brought by his parents to Chatfield township and here he has since resided. His boyhood and youth were passed in the usual manner of farmer lads of the period. working in the fields through the summer months, while in the winter season he pursued his education in the public schools. When twenty-four years of age he rented land from his father and continued its cultivation for ten years. He then purchased forty acres of his present farm, to which he has added from time to time until he is now the owner of three hundred and twenty acres. He has made many fine improvements upon the place, and all modern conveniences and accessories are there found, including the latest improved machinery, substantial buildings and high grades of stock, while his fields return to> him good crops.

In October, 1857, Air. Leonhart was married to Miss Elizabeth Ackerman, and unto them have been born eight children : Catherine M., Jefferson, George W., William A., Matilda. Gustavus A., Caroline E., and Emma. Tillie is the wife of Charles Foster; Callie married George Marquart. and Emma is the wife of William Gangluff. The family is one widely and favorably known in the community and the members of the household have a large circle of friends. In his political views Mr. Leonhart is a stalwart- Democrat and for ten years he has served as trustee of his township, dis- charging his duties in a most prompt and efficient manner. He belongs to the German Evangelical Lutheran church and his straightforward life is in harmony with his professions.

Theodore F. Pope

The well-known farmer of Lykens township, Crawford county, Ohio, whose name is the title of this sketch, is a worthy example of that class so numerous in America, that of the self-made men, and it is the aim of the writer to include in this work a brief account of his career not alone because it is due to Mr. Pope that he should be properly represented in these pages but also in the hope that others, reading of his success, may be encouraged to surmount obstacles and press forward more bravely along the hard but promising pathway of life.

Theodore F. Pope was born in Delaware, Ohio, March 30, 1845. At the age of five years he was taken to Williams county, Ohio, where he lived until he was fifteen years old, when his mother died. He then went to Mansfield, Ohio1, and found a home with his uncle, J. H. Barron, with whom he lived two years. Then, in 1862, at the age of seventeen years, he enlisted as a private in the Tenth Ohio Cavalry and entered upon a career as a soldier under the gallant General Kilpatrick. His first experience of battle was at Snow Hill. He afterward fought at Shelbyville, and under Sherman participated in that distinguished officer's celebrated march to the sea, enduring many hardships and taking part in many desperate sorties and hotly-contested engagements. He was honorably discharged from the service August 9, 1865.

After the war Air. Pope went to Lykens, Crawford county, Ohio, where for three years he was a clerk in a store. He left that position to assume the management of a sawmill, which he retained for one year. He then engaged in farming, which he has continued successfully to the present time. In 1884 he removed to his present farm, which he worked under lease owe year and -which he bought in 1S85. It contains one hundred and ten acres of wellimproved and well-cultivated land and is provided with a good residence, ample barns and all necessary outbuildings. He gives his attention to general farming.

Air. Pope was married April 23. 1868, to Miss Amy B. Yingling, who has borne him six children. Their daughter Esther is the wife of H. B. Tippin, of Lykens, Ohio. Their daughter Rena married Daniel Augenv, also of Lykens. Their daughter Ada is the wife of Michael Geiger, of Chat- field. Their daughter Sanoma married H. E. Valentine, of Logan county, Ohio. Their son Clifford J. and their son Judson K. are members of their household.

Mr. Pope is a Republican in political affiliation, and he is not without influence in the local councils of his party. He has never been an officeseeker, but has been prevailed upon to serve his fellow townsmen as assessor of Lykens township, to which office he has been twice elected. His interest in the welfare of his township and county has been manifested in many ways, and lie never withholds his support from any measure which he believes tends to the advancement of worthy local interests. He is a member of Lykens Lodge, No. 506, Independent Order of Odd Fellows.

Matthias M. Springer

Matthias M. Springer is an honored veteran of the Civil war who has made a great sacrifice for his country. He stands to-day among those to whom the nation owes a debt of gratitude which can never be repaid. His loyalty and valor was displayed on man}' southern battlefields and throughout his entire life he has been a supporter of every interest which he believed would prove of general good to his county, state and nation. No history of Crawford county would be complete without the record of his life, which we, therefore, gladly present to our readers, according to him the honor which is his just due.

Mr. Springer was born in Weller township, Richland county, on the 15th of January, 1837, and i§ a son °f George W. and Elizabeth ( Marion ) Springer. The family is of Swedish origin and was founded in America by four brothers, Michael, Peter, William and Daniel, who crossed the Atlantic from Sweden in an early day and settled in New Jersey. The first named was the greatgrandfather of our subject, and from New Jersey he removed to> Pennsylvania. His son, Matthias Springer, the grandfather of our subject, was born, according to tradition, in the red stone country of New Jersey, May 15, 1758, and died in June, 1822. He was a personal acquaintance of George Washington, but it is not known with certainty whether or not he served in the Revolutionary war. George W. Springer, the father of our subject, was born in Allegheny county, Pennsylvania, October 22, 181 1, and in his parents' home spent the days of his childhood and youth. He acquired a good commonschool education, and soon after attaining his majority emigrated to> Ohio, locating in Weller township, Richland county, becoming one of its pioneer settlers. The Indians were very numerous in that portion of the state but were always friendly. In Pennsylvania Mr. Springer had learned the trade of a tanner and shoemaker, and after coming to Ohio he purchased a tan-yard, which he conducted for a number of years. lie devoted some time to farming soon after his arrival in the Buckeye state, but rheumatism forced him to abandon this and he then actively engaged in the tanning business, which he followed the greater part of his active life. About a year after taking up his abode in Richland county, he was married on the 19th of September, 1833, to Miss Elizabeth Mali on, who was born in Jefferson county, Ohio, October 25, 1814, and was a daughter of James and Millie (Hitchcock) Mahon, both of whom were of Irish extraction. They emigrated to Richland county in 1818. settling in Weller township, where their remaining days were spent in the midst of pioneer scenes, the red men being almost their only neighbors. At the time of the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Springer his wife received as as her patrimony forty acres of forest land, which the father of our subject cleared and improved. Later, he purchased an adjoining tract of fort}' acres and the development of this largely devolved upon his sons, owing to the father's ill health. After selling his Richland county farm, George \Y. Springer removed to Crawford count}' on the 1st of April, 1865, and purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land in Cranberry township, one mile southeast of New Washington, and here he and his wife resided up to the time of her death. He passed away on the Jjd of November, 1889, and she was called to her final rest on the 5th of May, 1888. They were life-long members of the Methodist Episcopal church, earnest and consistent Christian people, who reared their children in that faith and taught them habits of industry and integrity, thus well fitting them for the duties and obligations of life. They had ten children, seven of whom are yet living, namely: Matthias M. ; Elizabeth, the wife of John Tooker, of Michigan: Amelia, Athaliah and George W., triplets, the first named the wife of a Mr. Hilton, of Tiffin, Ohio, the second of the widow of Henry Bender, of Marion, Ohio, while George resides with his brother Matthias; Nancy M., who married William Corrathers, of Ohio City, Ohio; and Mary M., the wife of Sheridan Spencer, of Seneca count}', Ohio.

Matthias M. Springer began his mastery of the branches of English learning in the common schools near his home and during the period of his childhood and youth remained with his parents, assisting in the farm work as he grew old and strong enough to manage the plow and the other agricultural implements. On attaining his majority he started out to fight the battle of life, and whatever success he has achieved since that time is due entirely to his own efforts. For two years he was employed in a stone quarry, and as opportunity offered he secured work as a journeyman at the brick and stone mason's trade, his time being thus passed for a year. On the expiration of that period he began doing contract work in putting up post and rail fences and executing various jobs in carpentering, in which he was very successful, receiving good salaries. On the nth of August, 1861, however, he sacrificed all business opportunities in order to aid his country in her struggle to preserve the Union intact. He joined Company M, of the Second Ohio Cavalry, and after recruiting for five months at Cleveland the regiment was sent to Camp Dennison and soon afterward to Fort Leavenworth. After a short stay at that place the troops were sent to Kansas City, and in that vicinity had a sharp skirmish with Ouantrell, the guerrilla chief. Next the regiment was sent to Fort Scott, but Mr. Springer remained behind as an inmate of the general hospital with a severe case of inflamed eyes, caused by vaccination, which had been administered while he was at Camp Dennison. It was slow to take, however, and on encountering the severe winters of the western country he contracted a cold which inflamed his eyes. Through a scare at Fort Scott on the expected advance of the Confederate troops, he was taken to- that place with others ere he had fully recovered, being at the time under the medical supervision of the regimental surgeon. While at that place the regiment of twelve companies, finding it impossible to recruit, formed into a battalion of eight companies and Mr. Springer was transferred to Company G. The troops then returned to headquarters at Fort Scott for some time, and in the interval went on an Indian expedition to Fort Gibbs and Fort Smith for two months, during which time there occurred a two-days' fight at Cain Hill. Mr. Springer was also1 one of a company of one hundred and fifty men chosen as a detachment to go* on an expedition to Humboldt to suppress the Indian insurrections at that place. There they met in council with seventeen different tribes of Indians and matters were peaceably settled.

In December, 1862, as the regiment were almost entirely dismounted, it was called back to Camp Chase to recruit and there was remounted. In the follow ing spring it was transferred to the Army of the Cumberland, and going to Somerset, Kentucky, were encamped at that place for several weeks, during which time the Union men had several skirmishes with the troops of General Pegrim. After some weeks passed at Danville and at Camp Nelson, they moved to- Lexington, but there remained only a brief period, after which they spent a few weeks at Stanford and thence took up the line of march into eastern Tennessee, where they were constantly on the move, either advancing, driving the enemv before them, or retreating for some weeks up to the siege of Knoxville, in which Mr. Springer took part. Following this he went with his regiment to Strawberry Plains, where they went into winter quarters, and during the winter season the engineer corps repaired the bridge at that place. On the i st of January, 1864, while at Strawberry Plains, Mr. Springer enlisted as a veteran and shortly afterward began the journey home, arriving at Camp Chase, where the regiment was again mustered into the service and then granted a thirty-day furlough. On the expiration of his leave of absence he rejoined his regiment at Cleveland and was transferred with Burnside to the Ninth Corps of the Army of the Potomac. After rendezvousing for two weeks at Annapolis, they took part in the battle of the Wilderness, and subsequently the Second Ohio> Cavalry was transferred to Sheridan's Cavalry Corps and took part in Wilson's second raid, in which they tore up seventvtwo miles of the Petersburg and Lynchburg Railroad. This movement was followed by the mine explosion at Petersburg. Soon afterward Mr. Springer was sent to the hospital at City Point, trouble with his eyes incapacitating him for service,. The same afternoon the regiment received orders to> move to sWashington city, and he was placed on a boat and sent through with his command. Immediately on his arrival he was committed to Camp Stoneman hospital, and after two days was sent to the Emory general hospital, at Washington, D. C, where he remained for over eleven months. After about six months there passed he was appointed general superintendent of the cooking department, and by the war department was made a member of the Veteran Reserve Corps so that he might be retained in this position. After the hospital was broken up he rejoined his regiment at Camp Cadwalader, in Philadelphia, and was made superintendent of the cooking department there, acting in that capacity until September 18, 1865, when he was honorably discharged from the service.

At the close of four long years spent at the front Mr. Springer gladly returned to his home and on the 1st of March, 1866, he was united in marriage to Miss Ferena Easly, a native of Cranberry township, and a daughter of Jacob Easly. Her father was a native of Switzerland and originally spelled the name Iseli. In 1834 he came to America, accompanied by his second wife, mother of Mrs. Springer, who bore the maiden name of Barbara Strauchen. They were also accompanied by his rive children, born of his first marriage.

The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Springer has been blessed with fourteen children, of whom twelve are vet living, namelv : George W '., who follows

.carpentering in Cleveland; Elizabeth, the wife of W. H. Smith, of Fostoria, (Ohio; Samuel M., a painter and plasterer in Cranberry township; Charles A., a carpenter in Cleveland, Ohio; Anna A., wife of A. S. Nye, of Cranberry township; Lela F., wife of Joseph Wolfert, of Cleveland; Arthur J., and Elmira M., at home; Walter R., who follows carpentering- in Cleveland; Martha L, Lucy V. and Effie L., all of whom are still with their parents.

After his marriage Mr. Springer took up his abode in a log cabin, about one and a half miles west of the present home, where he resided for eighteen months, during which period he followed any respectable employment that he could secure. He then went to Ottawa county , Ohio, where he purchased eighty acres of timber land and erected a log house and a log barn, making his home upon that place for six years. Again he had trouble with his eyes, which prevented him from working, and in consequence he sold his farm and returned to Crawford county. Here he purchased the south half of the old homestead and lived there for six years. In 1881, however, he sold that property and purchased his present home farm of eight}- acres, upon which he has resided through two decades. About t88o his eyesight began failing so that at times of a period of several weeks he would be totally blind, and soon after his removal to his present home he lost the entire use of his eyes. It was certainly a great sacrifice he made to his country, for it was during his service as a defender of the Union that the trouble was incurred which ultimately resulted in blindness.

In his political views Mr. Springer is a stanch Republican and for some years after his return from the war he served as supervisor and as school director, but his blindness compelled him to give up active participation in such work. He and his wife were consistent and prominent members of the Methodist Episcopal church, and the family is one of prominence in the community. Mr. Springer is one of the most highly esteemed citizens of this part of the state.

Jacob C. Mielimiter

Although Switzerland is one of the smallest of the countries of Europe, it has furnished some valuable citizens to the new world. Of that country Mr. Millimiter is a native, his birth having there occurred on the 7th of May, 1849., His education was obtained in its public schools, and the first nineteen years of his life were passed in his native land, after which he bade adieu to friends and home and sailed for the United States. Having arrived on the Atlantic seaboard he started westward and first took up his abode in Van Wert county, Ohio, where he began working with his father, with whom he remained until he had attained his majority, when he started out in life for himself-. He was employed as a farm hand by the month and thus obtained a start in the business world. The year 1876 witnessed his arrival in Crawford count)', and for three years thereafter he worked on a farm.

Mr. Millimiter was then married, the lady of his choice being Miss Mary Smith, by whom he has one child, William, who is yet at home with his parents. At the time of their marriage Mr. Millimiter began operating land on the shares. He went to Cranberry township, where he remained for eight years, and then came to the farm upon which he now resides and which has been his home continuously since 1896. He now owns one hundred and six acres of land. This is an arable tract and the well tilled fields bring forth good harvests, for he raises the grains best adapted to this climate and carefully cultivates his land. He is a member of the German Reformed church, and his life is consistent with his religious faith. Whatever success he has achieved is due entirely to his own efforts and his enterprise and energy will enable him to gain still greater prosperity in the future.

Frederick W. May

One of the leading and representative citizens of Tiro, Ohio, is Frederick W. May, who is the subject of this biography. He was born in Liberty township, Crawford county, on June 1 I, 1862, and is one of a family of seven children born to Louis and Sophia (Krebs) May.

Louis May, the father of our subject, was born in Bavaria, Germany, on May 8, 1828, a son of Louis and Fredericka (Schaeffer) May, and was one of a family of ten children, four of whom still survive, these being: Louis, the father of our subject; William, who operates the home farm in Bavaria; George and Rinehart. both of whom are residents of Boston, Massachusetts. The grandparents of our subject were born and spent their whole lives in Bavaria, where the grandfather died at the age of sixty-four and the grandmother at the age of seventy-seven years. Louis May grew to manhood on his father's farm and obtained an excellent education in the German schools, and still retains the language of the Fatherland.

In 1853 Mr. Louis May started for America, in company with many others from his own land, among these being the lady who later became his wife. After a voyage of thirty-five days the party landed in New York, about the middle of October. Mr. May went immediately to Boston, Massachusetts, where his brother-in-law resided. He was the well-known Daniel Shales, who carried on a large cabinet-making business, employing seventy-five men, and under his instruction Mr. May in time became a finished workman in that trade, serving a full apprenticeship and later working with him as a journev-

^In i8So Mr. May married Miss Sophia Krebs, who was born in Bavaria also and who was a daughter of Frederick and Christiana (Weibel Krebs, who followed her to America in the following year, locating with their son in Osceola, in Crawford county, where their last years were spent. A family of seven children was born to Louis May and wife, the six survivors being: Anna who is the wife of Henry Ulmer. of Sandusky township, in this county ; Louis, who conducts the home farm; George, who is also at home; Frederick W., who resides in Tiro; Elizabeth, who is the wife of Philip Bender, of Sandnskv township ; and Emma, who is at home.

In the spring of 1861 Mr. May, with his wife and thre children, came to Crawford county and settled on a farm of forty acres which he had purchased in Liberty township, near Sulphur Springs, prior to his removal to the county. More land was added to the farm, making it contain fifty-five acres, and here Mr May and his family resided until 1877, when he sold that place and bought his present fine farm of one hundred and six acres in Vernon township, which has been his home ever since.

In political matters Air. May has always been a Democrat, and both he and his wife have been active members of the Lutheran church, and are among the most highly esteemed citizens of the county.

Frederick W. May was sent to school and grew up on the farm, acquiring an education both mentally and physically, and remained under the parental roof until his marriage, on December 2S, 1894. to Miss Sidney Carmichael. She was a native of Richland county, Ohio, and was a daughter of Franklin Carmichael. one of the early settlers of Richland county.

\fter marriage our subject located in Tiro, where for many years his capable wife had conducted a successful millinery business, and in the following year he engaged in the grocery line. On account of his business qualifications as well as his pleasant and courteous manner, Mr. May soon built up a large trade and is now one of the leading men in his line in the city. In politics he has alwavs been a Democrat and at present is faithfully filling the office of town treasurer Socially he is connected with the order K. of P., Lodge No, 592. of Tiro, m which he takes an active interest. Mrs. May has long been one of the consistent members of the Lutheran church, which he also attends and most cheerfully assists in supporting. They occupy one of the most comfortable and attractive residences of the place and there dispense a liberal hospitality to their many friends. Mr. May is known as one of the broad-minded, progressive men of the community and as one ever ready to do his part in advancing, the interests of the town.

Frank Wechter

Men of strong purpose, marked individuality, enterprise and diligence have no need to complain of life, for to such success always vouchsafes a reward, and from humble position to a place of affluence they rise through their own efforts. Of this class is Frank Wechter a representative, and among the more prominent citizens of Crawford county he well deserves mention.

A native of Rochester, New York, he was born May 17, 1838. His father George Wechter, was born in France in 1806. and there learned the blacksmith's trade. Ere leaving his native country he wedded Frances Heartrick, and after the birth of their eldest child they came to the United States, locating in Rochester, where the father worked at various occupations until he had accumulated a few hundred dollars, when he purchased a small place near Rochester - a tract of seven acres, upon which he made his home until 1853,. when he came to Ohio and bought eight}' acres of land in Chatfield township. Here he lived for some years, when he sold that property and became the owner of a quarter section of land in Cranberry township, that is now occupied by his son Frank. He was a member of the Catholic church, a Democrat in political faith., and died in 1884, respected by all who knew him. Unto him and his wife were born seven children, the surviving members of the family being: George; Alary A., the wife of Peter Miller, of Grand Rapids, Michigan; Jacob, of Allen county, Indiana; Joseph, a florist o<f Rochester, Xew York; and Frank, of this review. Frances and Henry are now deceased.

When fifteen years of age Frank Wechter accompanied his parents on their removal to Crawford county. Prior to this time he had attended the German school o<f Rochester, with the exception of one winter, and after coming to this locality he resumed his studies in the English schools. When he had arrived at man's estate he began cultivating the home farm on the shares and throughout the period of his active business career has carried on agricultural pursuits.

On the 7th of May, 1862, Mr. Wechter led to the marriage altar Miss Mary Heydinger, a native of Loraine, France, and a daughter of Mr. and Mrs.

John Adam Heydinger, who came to Crawford county in 1850, settling in Cranberry township, where he remained until his death. In 1867, with his family and parents, Mr. Wechter came to Cranberry township, buying in partnership one hundred and sixty acres of land, which he managed and conducted until 1875, when he purchased his father's interest in the farm, his parents, however, continuing to> reside with him until they departed this life.

The home of Mr. and Mrs. Wechter was blessed with nine children: August and John, who are living in Cranberry township; Mary, Barnett and Julia, at home; Francis, deceased; Joseph, who is attending St. Mary's Seminary, in Cleveland, Ohio, preparing for the priesthood; Marcus, who has also passed away : and Henry, who is a student in St. Francis College, at Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Mrs. Wechter, the mother of these children, passed to the other world March 9, 1883, since which time Mr. Wechter has remained a widower. At the time of her death their youngest son, Henry, was but two and a half years old.

About ten years ago Mr. Wechter sold one hundred and sixty acres of valuable land at Big Rapids, Michigan, and divided the money among his two oldest sons, thus giving them a start in life. He became the sole owner of his present property in 1875, and the place is now being cultivated by his son Barney. Mr. Wechter manifests his political views by the unfaltering support he gives the Democracy, but has never sought office, his attention being occupied with his business affairs, which in the course of years have brought to> him a good financial return, so that he is now numbered among the substantial and well-to-do agriculturists of his adopted county.

Nelson Close

Nelson Close, who in his time was one of the prominent citizens of Texas township, Crawford county, Ohio, was born in the state of New York in 1818, and died at his home in Texas township April 25, 1874. He emigratedto Ohio in 1844 and located on the farm on which he passed the remainder of his life. He was married in 1845 to Elizabeth Bender, who was born in Cumberland county, Pennsylvania, February 15, 1820, a daughter of George and Mary ( Fohler) Bender. Mrs. Close came with her father and other members of his family to Ohio in 1824. They made the journey from Pennsylvania by horse team and stopped for about a year at Bucyrus, the site of which was at that time marked by only a few primitive log cabins. In 1825 they went on to Benton, in Crawford county, where Mr. Bender entered a claim to government land, on which he erected a small log house. The forests round about abounded with wild game and Indians often came to his cabin, but never showed aught but a friendly disposition. He hunted some and burned a good deal of lime, which he hauled to Bucyrus. He was a very progressive and enterprising man, who was a member of the Lutheran church and took an active interest in evangelical and Sunday-school work. He was the first incumbent of the office of trustee of Texas township and platted the village of Benton, and was the first postmaster at that point. He died February 10, 185 1, aged fifty- four years. His daughter, Mrs. Close, taught a subscription school in a log building at Benton when she was about twenty years old. She was the oldest of eight children of her parents and she was early orphaned by the death of her mother at the early age of thirty-two years.

Mr. Bender's house was noted for its hospitality, and its roof sheltered not only white men, but from time to time Indians remained there over night. The Indians trusted him and he wielded considerable influence over them, and it was their custom to come to him for advice concerning their troubles with each other and with whites. Mr. Bender's advent in Texas township was followed by some discouraging incidents. Nearly all of his money was stolen and one of his horses died, but he did not permit these troubles to> daunt his courage, though he and his family endured many hardships and often were put to great inconvenience to secure the necessaries of life. He was obliged to carry his wheat on horseback to Upper Sandusky to mill, and after waiting for it to lie ground brought his share of the flour home, the miller retaining the customarv toll for grinding it. The only windows in their first house were holes in the wall covered with greased paper, and while they admitted a certain amount of light nothing was visible through them. They had no stove in their cabin, and they ate from old-fashioned pewter dishes which they had brought with them from the east. Mr. Bender was an industrious man, the sounds of whose ax strokes could be heard early and late, and he cleared most of his land of the dense forest, and eventually even of the stumps, fenced it and put it under a good state of cultivation.

Nelson and Elizabeth (Bender) Close had children as follows: Thendaughter Mary is the wife of Michael Davis, of Nebraska. Their son George owns a part of his father's homestead on which his father made his original settlement, which consisted of one hundred and twenty acres. Their daughter Hannah is dead. Their daughter Ella lives at the homestead in Texas township. A biographical sketch of their son Harvey appears elsewhere in this work. Their son Adelbert is dead. Their daughter Alta lives in Holmes county, Ohio. Mr. Close was a member of the Lutheran church, and his widow, who since his death has lived on the farm home, is also devotedly attached to the belief of that religious organization

George Close, son of Nelson and Elizabeth ( Bender) Close, who since his father's death has farmed the old homestead, has won a good business success and is regarded as an enterprising, progressive citizen of much public spirit.

S. William Geissmaxx

S. William Geissmann, who is successfully engaged in farming in Chatfield township, where he has resided for almost half a century, was born in Saxony, Germany, March 8, 1835, his parents being Christian and Dorothy (Hetzer) Geissmann, in whose family were three children: Charley, a resident of Iowa county, Iowa; S. William, of this review; and Mary, who died in infancy. The father was a nailmaker by trade and followed that pursuit in Germany until 1872, when he came with his family to the new world, making the voyage across the Atlantic in a sailing vessel, which was seventy-seven days in reaching the American port. There were three hundred emigrants on board, the food supply ran short and the passengers experienced considerable discomfort. At length they reached the harbor of Quebec, and from that point Mr. Geissmann and his family proceeded to Chatheld township, Crawford county, Ohio, where the parents spent their remaining days, the father passing away at the age of seventy-seven, the mother when seventy-five years of age

In his native land S. Wiliam Geissmann acquired a good German education and at the age of twelve years began working at the nailmaker' s trade under the direction of his father. He was seventeen years of age when he arrived in this country, and soon afterward he secured employment in a foundry in Bucyrus, receiving ten dollars per month for his services and paying a dollar per week for his board, which left him a surplus of six dollars per month. He was there employed for three months, after which he learned the cooper's trade, receiving seventy-five dollars and his board for his services during the two years of his apprenticeship. After completing the term he worked on the section for two months and then began coopering in Bucyrus, where he remained for two years. On the expiration of that period, in connection with his brother, he purchased sixty acres of land in Chatfield township, of which twenty-five acres had been cleared, and on this built a cooper shop, our subject working at his trade during the day, while at night he continued the task of clearing the land. He followed the dual occupation of farming and coopering until 1896, when he removed to the farm upon which he now resides. He had previously rented the place, beginning in i860, and for eleven years thereafter he had been the occupant. He now owns one hundred and sixty-four acres of valuable land, of which one hundred and thirty acres have been cleared, and of this he cleared sixty-five acres. He has brought his farm under a high state of cultivation and has made valuable improvements on the place, transforming ,it into a very desirable property. The fields return to him good harvests, and everything is neat and thrifty in appearance, showing the owner to be a progressive agriculturist.

In i860 Air. Geissmann was married to Miss Caroline Balthaser, and unto them have been born thirteen children, of whom ten are living: Henry, Charley, Augustus, Edward, Albert, Emma, Anna, Clara, Minnie and Callie. Three of the children died in infancy. The family is well known in Chatfield township and Crawford county, and the sterling qualities of its members have gained them uniform respect. Mr. Geissmann exercises his right of franchise in support of the men and measures of the Democracy, and his fellow townsmen, recognizing his worth and ability, have called him to office. He served for six years as trustee of Chatfield township, and for twelve years was school director, laboring earnestly for the benefit of the school system in his neighborhood. His life has been one of honest toil, and his enterprise and indefatigable labor have enabled him to win a desirable prosperity.

John Morrow

From his boyhood until the present time the subject of this review has been connected with agricultural interests, and is thoroughly acquainted with that line of work in every detail. Since his birth he has been a resident of Crawford county, and during the intervening years he has become known as one of the enterprising business men of the locality, devoting his time and energies to the conduct of his farm. So ably has he managed his interests that he has met with most gratifying success, and at the same time has gained the public confidence and good will by his honorable business methods.

The Morrow family is an old and honored one in the history of Crawford county. A native of Auburn township, this county, our subject first opened his eyes to the light or day on the 13th of July, 1851, and is a son of James and Margaret (Ake) Morrow, a sketch of whom will be found in this volume.

He remained under the parental roof until after his marriage. In the spring following that event his father died, and after the estate was divided our subject received as his share the original homestead entered by his grandfather Morrow, and there he located with his bride and began his career as a farmer. In the spring of 1891 he purchased eighty-five acres of land adjoining the homestead, and in the fall of that year took up his abode thereon, but he still continues the cultivation of both farms.

The marriage of Mr. Morrow was celebrated on the 10th of December, 1874, when Miss Susan N. Cory became his wife. She is a native of Crawford county, Ohio. Two children have blessed the union of Mr. and Airs. Morrow, namely: Harry Burton, who is at home with his parents; and Charlie James, who holds the responsible position under the government as meat inspector in St. Joe, Missouri. Mr. Morrow is liberal in his political views, but his preference is given to the Democracy. He has always taken a deep interest in the development and growth of his locality, and has been foremost in all local improvements and enterprises calculated to permanently benefit his county.

Rev. John Beal

The Rev. John Beal, whose life has been devoted to agricultural pursuits and to spiritual work among his fellow men, is a gentleman of wide influence, teaching by example as well as precept of the development of one's higher nature through the influences of Christianity. He was born in Holmes township, this county, on the 9th of June, 1857, and is a son of Conrad Beal, a native of Lycoming county, Pennsylvania, who, after arriving at years of maturity, married Elizabeth Wagner, and unto them were born the following children . Daniel, of Bucyrus township; Magdeline, wife of J. D. Durr; Solomon, of Chatfield township ; Lydia, wife of Samuel Shawl, of Liberty township ; Sophia, who married Jacob Berger, of Holmes township ; and John, of this review. It was in the year 1848 that Conrad Beal left his home in the Keystone state and came to Crawford county, taking up his abode upon a farm in Whetstone township, where he remained until 1854, when he settled in Holmes township upon a farm of eighty acres now owned by Jacob Meek. There he lived until 1869, when he went to Chatfield township, purchasing two hundred and forty acres of land, constituting the farm which is now owned by Emanuel Kalb. There Mr. Beal continued to carry on agricultural pursuits until his life's labors were ended in death and he was called to the home beyond. He passed away in October, 1895, at the age of seventy-one years, his birth having oc- curred in 1824, and his wife died in 1900, at the age of seventy-four. They were consistent Christian people, holding membership with the Pietist church.

Rev. Beal, of this review, was a lad of twelve summers when the family removed to Chatfield township. At the age of eleven years he began working as a farm hand, and was thus employed for two years, while throughout the remainder of his minority he assisted his father in the work of the home farm. His educational privileges were those afforded by the common schools, but subsequent reading, study, experience and investigation have broadened his mind, added to his store of knowledge and made him a well-informed man.

On the 8th of August, 1880, Mr. Beal was united in the holy bonds of matrimony to Miss Elizabeth Lust, a daughter of Conrad Lust, and their marriage has been blessed with the following children: Mattie, Laura E., John \Y., Frederick N., Reuben E., Jessie D. and Edna N.

Soon after their marriage Mr. and Airs. Beal began their domestic life upon her father's farm, where they remained for five years, and in 1885 they came to their present home in Chatfield township, where Mr. Beal has made splendid improvements. He is carrying on general farming and stock-raising with good success, his labors bringing to him a desired financial reward. His progressive methods are indicated in the attractive appearance of the place. During the past eleven years he has also served as the minister of the Pietist church, and his labors have been productive of great good, as he has put forth strong efforts for the spiritual advancement of the neighborhood. He votes with the Democracy, and is known as a public-spirited citizen, deeply interested in everything pertaining to the welfare of his native county and contributing to its advancement along material, social, intellectual or moral lines.

Michael Lutz

The German element in our national commonwealth is one of much importance. No country has furnished so many valuable citizens to the United States as the fatherland. They are men of diligence, determined and self-reliant, and of this class Mr, Lutz is a representative. He was born in Wurtemberg, Germany, February 7, 1821, and spent his early youth upon a farm. In 1833 he came with his stepfather, George Schemly, and the family to .America, the voyag"e being made in a sailing vessel which reached the American harbor in ninety-five days after leaving the German port.

abode in Chatfield township. The next year he went to Pennsylvania and began carrying water for the men working on the canal. In the fall he returned to this county and the next summer worked on the Miami canal. Subsequently he began working by the day, and when nineteen years of age he learned the carpenter's trade, which he followed until 1 861, being actively identified with the building interests of the count}' throughout that period. He was a skillful mechanic and was thus enabled to secure employment easily. In the meantime, however, in 1849, *ie nac^ invested his earnings in one hundred and forty acres of land, which he cleared and improved, transforming the wild tract which came into his possession into a valuable farm. As the years have passed he extended the boundaries of his property and now has two hundred and ninety-two acres of valuable land, constituting a very fine and attractive farm, supplied with all modern accessories and improvements.

In 1848 Mr. Lutz was united in marriage to Miss Sabina Kalb, and unto them have been born eleven children, all of whom are yet living. Mr. Lutz is a member of the German Evangelical Lutheran church, in which he has held the offices of trustee and deacon, having been identified with the society of that denomination in Chatfield since its organization. He has ever taken a deep interest in the growth and progress of the society and the extension of its influence. In his political affiliations he is a Democrat and has filled the position of trustee and school director, discharging his duties with promptness and fidelity. Llis life has been crowned with success, and though he started out for himself empty-handed, he is now the owner of a valuable farm. For two-thirds of a century he has resided in the county and has therefore winessed the greater part of its development and Upbuilding and has borne his part in its progress. His life, honorable and upright,. has commended him to the respect of his fellow men and no one is more: worthy of representation in this volume than Michael Lutz.

David E. Lutz

Among the successful business men of Chatfield is the subject of this review, a well-known representative of the industrial interests of his community. He is a man of keen discrimination and sound judgment, and his excellent management and executive ability have brought to the concern with which he is connected a high degree of success. Brooking no obstacles, which honest effort can overcome, he has steadily advanced on the high road

Mr. Lutz was born on the old home farm in Chatfield township, Jannary 18, 1866, and the common schools afforded him the educational privileges which he enjoyed in his early youth, while later he attended the high school in New Washington and the Ohio Normal University at Ada. His time, not given to the duties of the school-room, was devoted to work upon the home farm, where he remained until 1885, when he began teaching school through the winter months. At the age of twenty-two he became connected with the operation of a sawmill, but continued his labors as an instructor in the public schools until twenty-five years of age. Since that time he has enengaged in general farming and stock-raising, but his efforts have been by no means confined to this line, for throughout the entire period he has also engaged in the lumber business, operating a sawmill and conducting a lumber vard. In 1897 he erected the plant of the Chatfield Bending Company, in which enterprise he is associated with James McCormick. They engaged in the manufacture of bent-wood material for carriages, wagons and sleds, and theirs is one of the leading industrial interests in this part of the county. Employment is furnished to twenty men in the shops, and the pay roll and expenses for timber amount to from thirty-five to forty hundred dollars per month. Their patronage is large and is constantly growing, and the firm has an unassailable reputation in business circles. On account of the excellence and durability of the workmanship, as well as the straightforward business methods of the partners, the Chatfield Bending Company has a large trade, and the income of the partners is thus annually augmented.

In May, 1889, Mr. Lutz was joined in wedlock to Miss Elizabeth Kibler, and unto them have been born four children: Lester E., O. Ward, S. Vida and P. Verna. The wife and mother died in February, 1898, and her loss was widely felt throughout the community, for her many estimable qualities had endeared her to a large circle of friends. Mr, Lutz is regarded as a leading and influential citizen and one whose force of character is felt in the control of public affairs. He was elected the first mayor of Chatfield after its incorporation and still holds the position, and has splendidly performed the difficult task of placing the new machinery of government in good working order. In politics he is a stalwart Democrat and for several years has served on the Democratic central committee, while for three years he was township treasurer. He belongs to the German Evangelical Lutheran church and is in hearty sympathy with every movement for the general good and progress.

Every public duty and private obligation are discharged by him willingly and faithfully. He is yet a young man, full of determination and laudable ambition, combined with business ability, and while he has already won prosperity still further success undoubtedly awaits him.

James M. Dicksox

One of the prominent and representative citizens of Crawford county, Ohio, is James Madison Dickson, whose name carries with it an assurance of great financial stability as well as business prominence, as he is the president of the Bank of Tiro. The birth of Mr. Dickson was in Vernon township, in this county, on February 4, 1851. and he was a son of James and Nancy (Morrow) Dickson, and a member of a family of seven children, four of whom still survive, these being: Charles M.. who was born on June 16, 1833, and is a farmer and large landowner in Johnson county, Kansas: Mary, who was born on April 6, 1836, a maiden lady who resides on her farm east of Tiro; Nancy, who was born on November 19. J 838, and is the widow of John Dallas and resides with her children; James Madison, who is the subject of this sketch ; and those who have passed away but are not forgotten were : Sarah, who was born on January 27, 1831, married William Wilson and died on August 27, 1893, at Edgerton, Kansas; Rebecca, who was born on November 15, 1844, and died on November 24, 1888; and Harriet S.. win. was born on August 8, 1847, first married William Xagle. and later J. V. Johnston, and died on March 21, 1890.

George Dickson, who was the great-grandfather of our subject, emigrated from Ireland to America, in 1778. bringing his family with him. He settled in Franklin count}'. Pennsylvania, but later removed to Indiana count}-. His son, Andrew Dickson, who was the grandfather of our subject, was born in Ireland on May 2~, ijj6, and was two years old when the family came to the United States. He grew to manhood in Indiana county, Pennsylvania, and had, with the rest of his family, many thrilling adventures. At one time, while still a lad, he was taken by his intrepid mother and carried on horseback over the mountains in flight from pursuing Indians. Grandfather had three brothers and three sisters, their names being Samuel, George. William, Rachel, Leah and Hannah. About the time he reached his maturity the trouble known in the history of Pennsylvania as the ''whisky insurrection" broke out. Our subject's great-grandfather was a member of the regular army, and, of course. it was his duty to suppress the riots, but the family owned much property which had been won by hard labor ; therefore, it was decided that the family, for the sake of discretion, should divide, one part of it seeming to aid the insurrectionists. However, the unlawful element was soon conquered and the rioters disbanded. The grandmother's name had been Sarah Frazee, and they reared these children: Andrew. George, Jonathan, Mollie, James, Rachel, Leah, Sarah, William, Hannah, John, Elizabeth and Margaret, all growing to maturity and founding homes of their own, and all now deceased. In later life they could recall that their father was called to dinner by the blowing of the horn. The death of the grandfather was on January 28, 1859, at the age of eighty-three years, eight months and one day, the death of the grandmother being on October 8, 1850, at the age of fifty-two years.

George Dickson, who was a brother of the father of our subject, came to Crawford county, Ohio, in 1823, and settled in Vernon township, and in 1825 he planted the first orchard of the township. His son Andrew was the second white child born in the township. In 1829 James Dickson, who was the father of our subject, followed his brother to Ohio. He purchased two hundred and seventy-six acres of land which had been entered by his father some years prior, and here James Dickson built a cabin and immediately began the clearing of the land. He was a leader in Democratic politics, and efficiently served several terms as township trustee and was a prominent member of the United Presbyterian church. His death occurred on March 7, 1889. For fifty-one years he and his devoted wife lived in close affection before the angel of death visited the family. The mother of our subject was born in Auburn township, and she was a daughter of Charles and Mary (Cummings) Morrow, who were among the early settlers who came to Crawford county from Indiana county, Pennsylvania. Her marriage to Mr. Dickson was on October 29, 1829, and her death took place on December 14, 1879.

fames Madison Dickson, of this biography, passed his boyhood days on his father's farm anal attended the common schools, and at the age of twentyone years assumed the management of the home farm. He first cultivated it on shares, but after his father's death he was made administrator. When the estate was finally settled our subject purchased one hundred and seventy acres, winch included the residence and the farm buildings, but in 1892 he removed to Tiro and rented his farm, although he still retains its management. During this same year the Tiro Building «^r Loan Association was formed and Air. Dickson became the treasurer for two years, later the president, serving in that capacity ever since. In the spring of [899 A. C. Robinson, who was the presi- dent of the Bank of Tiro, died, and Mr. Dickson purchased his interest and later was made the president of this reliable and substantial institution.

For many years Mr. Dickson has been a prominent politician, a leader in the Democratic party, and in 1893 lie was made a member of the central committee of the township, and in the spring of 1901 he was elected township treasurer, entering upon his duties in September of the current year. He was a charter member of Tiro Lodge, No. 592, K. of P., and was the representative to the grand lodge both in 1899 and 1900, has passed all of the chairs in the order and at present is keeper of record and seals, serving for three years. Mr. Dickson is well known not only in this community but also- through the county, and his social, political and business prominence makes him a thoroughly representative citizen of Crawford count}-.

Samuel Gee

Samuel Gee was formerly express agent at Crestline, but is now living a retired life. A brilliant example of the self-made American citizen and an excellent exemplification of the progress that an ambitious foreigner can make in this country of unbounded opportunity is shown in the case of Samuel Gee, one of the leading English-American residents of Ohio'. His increasing success is due to his own energy and the high ideals which his lofty and laudable amnition places before him. Success in any walk of life is an indication of earnest endeavor and persevering effort, - characteristics that Mr. Gee possesses in an eminent degree.

He was born in Nottinghamshire, England, Julv 21, 1816, and his ancestors for many generations had been farming people of that country. His father, Samuel Gee, was a native of the same locality and was an agriculturist by occupation. In 1843 ne came to America, taking- up his abode in Townsend, Ohio, where he followed farming for a short time. He was not long permitted to enjoy his new home, however, for death soon came to him and he passed away at the age of fifty-five years. His wife bore the maiden name of Hannah Willoughby, and was born in a parish adjoining her husband's birthplace. After his death she was again married, and removed to Michigan, where she died about 1855. By her first marriage she had two sons and two daughters, but the latter died in early childhood. The sons are : Samuel and Peter, the latter being a resident of Cleveland, Ohio, a moulder by trade. He is eight years his brother's junior.

in the place of his nativity, pursuing his studies mostly in a private school. He gave his attention to mastering the principles of English learning through the winter months and in the summer season assisted his father in the work of the farm. He and Queen Victoria were about the same age, and Air. Gee saw the lovely English monarch man}- times, both prior to her coronation and after her marriage to Prince Albert. He witnessed the celebration there in honor of George IV, William IV and Queen Victoria in 1837. He was twentyone years of age when she was crowned. He has lived during the reign of three English kings and one queen, as has his wife.

Mr. Gee was married in England. June 22, 1842, to Miss Mary Ann Radmall, who was born in Nottinghamshire, England, August 21, 1816, and there spent the days of her girlhood, acquiring her education in that locality. She was the eldest daughter in her father's family. After their marriage Air. and Mrs. Gee located in Sheffield, England. He had been educated for the ministry and there engaged in preaching as a representative of the Methodist church, devoting his life to that work until 1845, when he came to America. His first appointment in this country was to the church in Youngstown, Ohio, where he remained for two years. He afterward spent one year as pastor of the church in Portsmouth, Ohio, then going to Brownsville, Licking county, Ohio, where he remained six years. On the expiration of that period he went to Tiffin, Ohio, where he continued for four years, serving also as pastor of the church at Fostoria during a part of the time. He then came to Crestline and secured a situation with the American Express Company, in which he continued from i860 until 1893, covering a period of thirty-three years in the service of that corporation, at which time the company retired him upon a pension.

Mr. and Mrs. Gee became the parents of six children: William H., who died at the age of five years ; Samuel W., who is assistant manager of the Lake Huron steamboat lines; William A., who for many years has been a traveling salesman and is now living in Cleveland, Ohio; Lauretta, wife of Isaac B. Carlisle, of Buffalo, New York, where he is engaged in manufacturing; Cynthia E., deceased; Frank B., who for twelve years was train dispatcher for the Big Four Railroad Company, on the Cleveland and Columbus division, and is now with the C. L. & W. Railroad.

Mr. and Mrs. Gee are living in quiet retirement in their home in Crestline, Ohio, having traveled life's journey together for fifty-nine years, during which ;time their mutual love and confidence have increased as they have shared together the joys and sorrows, the adversity and prosperity which checker the lives of all. It is supposed that he was with the American Express Company longer than any other employe, for he entered its service only ten years after the organization of the company. He has taken considerable interest in local affairs, and for some time was a member of the school board. Mr. Gee has now reached the very venerable age of eighty-five years. He can look back over the past without regret and forward to the future without fear, for his has been a useful, honorable and upright life, true to his duties to his fellow men.